Prior to you, actually start searching for properties you should start searching for mortgages. You should talk to lenders prior to finding a home. It would help you know how much you would qualify for when applying for mortgage. The number of would be maximum amount you could get in a mortgage. It would help you find a home easily affordable by you.

Provide explanation in case you have bad credit score

You should talk the bank on your low credit score. It would be imperative for you to explain your credit history. You should provide proof of your timely payments of rent and other utilities for at least a year. In event of you having steady income, you should provide proof to the bank. It would also be important for you to go over the credit score with the moneylender. Late charges would also affect you credit score. Moneylenders would accommodate borrowers who could show they would pay their mortgage instalments in a timely manner, regardless the rough credit history.

Wait until the credit score improves

You should consider waiting until your credit score improves largely and make you eligible for mortgage without any problem. In the meantime, you should focus on improving your credit score without making any further defaults on the existing debts. Handling your debts and payments would help you increase the credit score. You should look forward to having a steady income and handle your debts in a strong manner. In case, you recently had foreclosure, bankruptcy or higher debt to income ration, it would be in your best interest to wait for at least two to three years. It would give you ample of time to repair your credit score.